Belly Dance and Body Image-Written by Laliba AhteenBelly Dance for me is more about self-acceptance and healing than about body image. In May 2007, I moved from Winnipeg to Oshawa, away from my son, family and friends. I know in my heart the decision I made to move was the right one but I was not allowing myself any forgiveness for my choices. For the first several months after moving I was angry, sad, lonely, verging on depression and having a hard time being away from ‘home’. But in January 2008 I started belly dance class and the healing finally began.
I have always loved the dance itself, the costumes, the music, the freedom of expression and the fact that women of every age, shape and size could look so beautiful performing. I saw my first live performance after finishing a Dragon Boat race for Cancer in 2006. After watching those ladies move with such grace, confidence and pure joy, I knew that was a world I wanted to be a part of.
Kiya and myself both started our classes on the same night and have grown together as dancers and friends. We have also had the privilege of learning from two very inspiring dancers and choreographers, Jawhara and Tabia. With the love and support of my newfound friends and the enjoyment I have experienced through learning this dance I was able to accept my life as it is now and move on to be happy and secure in my decisions.
I have always struggled with body image. I’ve always been large boned, never been thin but this dance teaches me how to express myself without feeling embarrassed about what I look like. I was made the way I am, my body was made to jiggle and shake. The more I can make it move the harder I know I’m dancing.
But most importantly for me this journey is all about living, learning, loving and growing into the dancer and person I have become.
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